The Tikhir Union Kohima (TUK) celebrated Tsonglak Nyi on 11th October 2023 at Bamboo Hall, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama. Special Transport Officer, Alembin graced the event as the special guest on behalf of her husband, P. Bashangmongba Chang Minister for Housing & Mechanical Engineering.

In her address, Alembin extended festival greetings to the people of Tikhir who had gathered to share the blessing and joy of Tsonglak Nyi festival. She said that the uniqueness of the Nagas is always defined and recognised by different festivals, cultures and languages spoken. Furthermore, she added that the most important aspect of festivals in the Naga society is to strengthen the relationship, the friendship with the neighbouring villages and also to forgive and forget.

Under Secretary Home Department, James Khulu Tikhir, NCS shared on the significance of Tsonglak Nyi, one of the most important festivals of the Tikhir tribe. It is celebrated for four days from 9th to 12th October every year.

He mentioned that the word Tsonglak Nyi is made up of two words- Tsong means Shield and Lak means sanctification. Tsonglak Nyi basically is a festival of the sanctification of shields. It also means sanctification of weapon as well as purification of menfolk before going out for hunting (during forefather’s time)

Every year, the village headman announces the festival to the public three days in advance. This is done so to enable the households/public to prepare necessary arrangements and make enough stock with regard to rice, firewood, rice beer etc. that would last for four days, James Khulu Tikhir added.

Short speech was also delivered by Kiusumong Tikhir, OSD to the Chief Minister while President of Tikhir Union Kohima, T. Tsuthong delivered a welcome address. Y.T Tsinthong, Pastor, TBCK invoked God’s blessing and vote of thanks was proposed by Executive Chairman (TUK) T. L Kiusumong Tikhir.

Elate Fusion Band presented indigenous folk song while Kiuti Khea Tsin Rechip performed folk song and dance.